The community of the Daughters of St. Paul in Lipa City celebrated its 85th anniversary of foundation, 4 December 2023. The Lipa community was the first community established in the Philippines. The pioneer FSP Italian missionaries set foot in the country two months prior in October 13, 1938 on their way to China. But the volatile situation in China forced them to leave the country and settled in the Philippines instead.
His Excellency, Archbishop Gilbert Garcera presided the Eucharistic celebration, assisted by two deacons. Six priests, including Fr. Leopoldo Botavara, Fr. Jose Aripio and Fr. Peter Barisoro from the Society of St. Paul, concelebrated the Mass.
Archbishop Garcera highlighted in his homily the evangelization work that the Paulines have done in the archdiocese since the beginning of its foundation, and their tireless efforts in visiting families, schools and other institutions to bring the Gospel to everyone.
The Provincial Superior with some members of the Provincial Council, as well as some representatives from the Pasay Community came to participate in the celebration.
Pauline Cooperators, benefactors, friends and mission collaborators also attended the Eucharist and partook the fellowship meal that followed after the Mass.
